Homework #7: The Psychology of Fonts

This article made me think about fonts in a way I never had before. Mikael Cho explains how our eyes follow a natural pattern called ‘the scan path’. This is a system for how people read text, which is made of fixations and saccades. I had never considered the patterns in which humans read in, and find it interesting that all people follow one main method. He also states how a well-designed format can affect the mood of the reader and make them focus more and process the information at a higher level. This then leads the reader to being more likely to take action based on them feeling good and accomplished about the information. This showcases how the mass public can be swayed and influenced easily.

There are many things that need to be watched for and thought about when creating an article or advertisement. The type of style on the font, the size of the font, the line length and the spacing all work together to change the meaning of the words drastically. I had never given this much consideration when I see words in my everyday life, so this article has caused me to be more aware about what I’m reading. “The Psychology of Fonts” is important for all to read because it emphasizes how humans can be easily influenced and how the public should be more aware about the information they receive.